Lauren Lodder

I lived in Orange County long before The OC and The Real Housewives franchise put it in the spotlight. Often out-of-towners ask me if those shows accurately portray life there. Well, I shrug, they embellish a little, but it is as charming in real life as it is on television. Practically any time of year you can swim in the ocean, sail in the harbor, or hike along picturesque trails. Some people prefer seasons, but in Southern California the temperature stays mild all year long. This suits us just fine. Whether you live in Dana Point or Irvine, here are…